Library for Arts & Culture

BPL’s Library for Arts & Culture is an art-centric library, boutique reading room and event space in the heart of Brooklyn’s downtown cultural district. 

The new neighborhood branch is located on the second floor of the L10 Arts and Cultural Center, an innovative public art center that houses three other Brooklyn-based institutions in addition to the Library: Brooklyn Academy of Music (BAM), the Museum of Contemporary African Diasporan Arts (MoCADA), and 651 ARTS. 

The result of this creative partnership? A truly unique library experience. 

Patrons are invited to enjoy the bright, inspiring space for coworking and conversation, relaxation and reflection. The Library for Arts & Culture features a variety of live programming and a special collection of international works including music, plays, philosophy, graphic novels, magazines and more, curated by our expert staff. Plus, the branch offers the traditional library services Brooklynites rely on—books for browsing, public computers and free WiFi. 

Special Collections 

At the Library for Arts & Culture, visitors will discover an ever-changing curated collection of books, music, periodicals and ephemera that reflect the dynamism of the neighborhood and the borough. The collection will be curated and continually updated by BPL librarians and archivists and will present different serendipitous experiences for visitors frequently throughout the year.  

Cultural Events 

BPL Presents, BPL's cultural programming division, will host events including readings, debates, conversations with artists and writers, and performances. BPL Presents will also produce pre- and post-performance talks with artists from other Brooklyn venues within L10, creating a public cultural community archive.  

The Space

During the day, visitors can browse books and art magazines from around the world in the branch’s inspiring reading room. The environment within this unique new cultural hub will reflect the creativity and professional experience of BPL’s specialized staff. Our hope is that visitors to the library at L10 will be inspired to interact with their community, experience visual and performing art for the first time, or deepen their connection to the cultural world.

Housing & Art Studios Resource Guide

NYC has long been a place where artists come to not only dream, but to live and hopefully thrive. Learn more in our guide about some of the current opportunities and resources available to NYC Artists to help them make space to create.

Learn more

Job & Career Help in the Arts Resource Guide

New York State is home to nearly a quarter of a million professional artists and workers in entertainment or media. The majority of those workers are based in New York City. Access career tips and resources specifically for artists, on how to improve your resume and portfolio, market yourself, network, and apply for grants.

Learn more

Additional Patron Resources

• Social Work & Wellness in the Arts Resource Guide
• Heritage Ambassadors: BPL's Folk Arts Program
• Online Resources & Research Databases